The Oxford Times Jobs Fair will return on Thursday, September 22, after career opportunities at the first event in February attracted more than 1,500 visitors.

Event sponsor Day and Nightcare Assistance said the fair was a "fantastic" way of meeting prospective employees.

Last time, major employers from across the county recruited staff, including Oxford University Hospitals Foundation Trust, the RAF, Thames Valley Police, learning disabilities charity Style Acre, and Grundon Waste Management.

Staff at the BMW Mini plant in Cowley, had a stall at the event at Oxford Town Hall with a team of apprentices.

There were 35 companies looking to sign up new recruits and so far 25 employers have signed up for the jobs fair later this month, with several more expected to come on board over the next two weeks.

Belinda Rand, media sales manager for Newsquest Oxfordshire, which publishes The Oxford Times, will again be co-ordinating the event.

She said: “The Oxford Times Jobs Fair is back by popular demand, due to the huge success of the jobs fair in February, when there were more than 1,500 visitors. It’s an excellent opportunity for companies to speak to prospective employees face to face.”

The fair, which starts at 10am and is free, will be staged in the main hall at the Oxford Town Hall in St Aldates and organisers are expecting more companies to confirm they will man stalls at the event.

Exhibitors will include Day and Nightcare Assistance, once again event sponsors, South Central Ambulance Service, NHS Blood and Transport, Tesco, Andrews Property Service, Grundon Waste Management, Age UK, and Hermes Parcelnet.

Day and Nightcare Assistance managers said they were delighted to sponsor the jobs fair as the long-established family-run company was always keen to welcome new faces. Staff work closely with clients, their families, local authorities and NHS trusts to provide care, helping the elderly to enjoy life in the comfort of their own homes.

Managing director John Maloney said: “Everybody needs a helping hand at some stage in their life, whether it’s in their working life or because they’re privileged enough to live to a ripe old age.

“The need for social care keeps growing as the population grows older.

“In Oxfordshire, thousands of people have values and skills which we can help develop into a career while providing a much-appreciated service.

"It’s a heart-warming feeling when you help people and bring a smile to their faces day-in and day-out.

“As an Oxfordshire employer, the jobs fair is a fantastic way of meeting potential team members face-to-face, giving them the chance to talk to us informally about the various roles we have and how we can help them find something that suits their style.

“We hope lots of people will come along and see us.”

For further information about hiring a stand at the jobs fair call Belinda Rand on 01865 425361.